The best
types of thrillers are ones using locations to their fullest. Whilst indoor-set mysteries are still good,
there’s something about being in open spaces that increases the tension and
atmosphere. It’s as if secrets can be
unearthed anywhere at any given moment that makes things more impactful. ‘Wind River’ uses this motif very well. A genuinely suspenseful film with its’ harsh
and rugged locations adding immeasurably to a mood refusing to let go until the
final credits.
When a body
of a Native American girl is discovered in the rocky wilderness of Wind River,
Wildlife agent Corey Lambert (Jeremy Renner) seeks help. This arrives in the form of novice FBI agent
Jane Banner (Elizabeth Olsen).
Unprepared and shocked by the harsh wintry conditions of the wilds,
Jane’s task in solving the mystery becomes harder. Using Corey as her tracker, Jane and her new
companion swiftly face the realities of their environment and the savagery of
nature’s elemental fury.
Although the
basic plot is predictable, ‘Wind River’ maximises locations well. The desolate, snowy vistas play an almost sinister
role hiding the horrors of what the duo discover. ‘Wind River’ isn’t a simple whodunit but a
complex piece about breaking down barriers of grief and proving yourself in a
different environment. Corey and Jane
are both damaged people looking for a way to free themselves of personal
burdens. Only by taking on the anguish
of the victims’ family can they let go, which is an almost perverse form of
therapy the film daringly explores.
Taylor
Sheridan makes a solid directorial debut with a good cast of characters and
strong story. He sets the scene well and
creates a slowly percolating atmosphere of dread. Whilst the procedural routine of examining
clues is formulaic, Sheridan goes deep into his characters to unearth issues of
racism and redemption. Renner and Olsen
turn in fine performances although their mumbling accents occasionally makes it
difficult to hear what they’re saying.
They are still good amongst a great cast who perfectly pitch their roles
with a dose of cynical world-weariness.
‘Wind River’
uses its locales well. It builds on the
screenplay’s drama and adds to the character’s feelings as they navigate its
brutal terrain. Mystery enthusiasts
should enjoy sifting through the clues along with the characters even if it’s
advisable to wear something warm while watching it.
Movie Review
Rating out of 10: 7
Movie Review
by Patrick Moore
Agree with
Patrick's Movie Review? Then please use the comment box.
Patrick
Moore's Movie Review is an alternative look at movie releases in Australia.
TRAILER
SOUNDTRACK
No comments:
Post a Comment